Thursday, October 15, 2009

Presque Isle Endurance Classic

Kurt & Brian at last year's event

This Saturday, NEO Trail members Kurt Osadchuk and Brian Musick will be participating in the Presque Isle Endurance Classic in Erie, PA. This event is a 12-hour run which takes place on a scenic 1 mile loop next to Lake Erie. The primary purpose of this event is to promote cardiovascular fitness in a safe, relaxed and friendly environment and to allow individuals the opportunity to run/walk a distance beyond that they have previously acheived or set a personal goal that is meaningful to them. There are no trophies or prize money.

This event was started 29 years ago by some of the founding fathers of the Erie Runners Club to test the endurance of some of the local runners. It still stands today because of the tireless efforts of Rick Ferko and his long time volunteers. Rick's battle with cancer ended shortly after the 2006 Endurance Run. Rick's family and friends wished to continue this run as a lasting memorial that would exemplify his life. The application form for this run includes a selection for contributing to Rick Ferko's Spirit of Social Work Scholarship, since it is funded soley on individual contributions. The fee for the run itself is only $10 and includes chip timing and aid.